Maple News reports that Manitoba has issued 428 invitations to immigration candidates in a fresh round of provincial nominations held on November 18. This draw is part of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), which aims to meet the province’s labour market and economic development needs.
The invitations were spread across three nomination streams. The bulk of the candidates — 376 — were invited under the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream, where the minimum required Expression of Interest (EOI) score was 464. Another 22 candidates were selected via the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, requiring a significantly higher EOI score of 726. Meanwhile, 30 candidates were invited through the International Education Stream, which does not mandate a specific EOI score.
Of the total pool, 68 invitations went to candidates who also have a profile in the federal Express Entry system. This alignment between provincial and federal pathways increases their chances of securing permanent residency, as a provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score — often enough to receive an automatic Invitation to Apply (ITA) in an upcoming federal draw.
Express Entry is Canada’s primary system for managing skilled immigration applications under three federal programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates in this system are evaluated based on several criteria including age, language proficiency, work experience, and education.
The MPNP allows the province of Manitoba to recommend immigration candidates to the federal government for permanent residency. Unlike the federal government, provinces cannot issue permanent residency themselves, but their nominations significantly enhance the likelihood of approval at the federal level.
To be considered for nomination by Manitoba, individuals must submit an Expression of Interest to the MPNP. This enters them into a pool where candidates are ranked out of 1,000 points based on human capital factors — such as skills and work experience — and their connection to Manitoba through work, education, or familial ties.
Manitoba’s immigration pathways provide meaningful options for applicants looking to settle in a province actively working to address industry gaps and population growth. As Canada continues to prioritize economic immigration, provincial nominee programs like MPNP serve as essential channels for both skilled workers and international graduates to access opportunities and build a new life in the country.
Maple News will continue to provide updates on provincial and federal immigration developments as Canada maintains its high immigration targets over the coming years.